Squamatosus myrmecophagus
Scaly Anteater
Field Report Summary
Physical Description
Body shape similar to a giant anteater, but completely covered in overlapping, keratinous scales like a pangolin. Scales are dark brown to black. Has a long, tubular snout with a small, toothless mouth. The fur beneath scales is light beige. Tongue is sticky and long, capable of extending far beyond the snout. Tail is prehensile and also covered in scales. Retains mammal characteristics: warm-blooded, bears live young, and nurses its young. Possesses small, slightly pointed ears.
Habitat
Tropical savanna with termite mounds and rocky outcrops.
Dietary Behavior
Primarily consumes arboreal ants and termites, located through echolocation.
Evolutionary Origin
Resulted from a rare genetic crossover between an anteater and pangolin ancestor during the Late Miocene.
Behavioral Notes
Exhibits a curious habit of collecting small, shiny pebbles.